Spier's advance, and were brave to a fault.
As soon as the Fenians appeared in force at St.Armands, Capt.

Carter hastily withdrew his force to the interior, as he said he was under the impression that it was not intended that he should bring on an engagement until he was properly reinforced, as his command was only an outpost.

For his action in retiring so early he was severely criticized and reprimanded for his "error in judgment in retreating without sufficient reason," while his troops never forgave him for what they considered an exhibition of cowardice.
The main body of Gen.

Spier's forces had advanced about a mile into Canadian territory, and took possession of all the houses and barns in the vicinity for their quarters.

Their scouts and pickets were thrown out three or four miles in advance, and for some days they were in complete possession of the country.